Countdown to Hokianga Treaty celebrations

It’s now officially less than a
week until the Hokianga celebrates the third and largest
signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on February 12.

The
community is expected to turn out in force at Māngungu
Mission, the NZ Historic Places Trust property in Horeke, in
a uniquely Hokianga celebration of the Treaty signing that
has become an annual festival for locals and visitors to the
area alike.

Back in 1840, the signing of the Treaty at
Māngungu almost a week after the Waitangi signing had a
large impact on the community, drawing about 70 rangatira
– who subsequently signed the Treaty – and between 2000
and 3000 Māori who attended what became a giant hui, and
the largest Treaty signing.

The gathering took place at
Māngungu Mission in Horeke, a Georgian-styled building now
cared for by the NZHPT, and which was the centre of the
Wesleyan Mission in the Hokianga. Today the building
overlooks the beautiful Hokianga harbour.

The NZHPT is
once again joining forces with the Māngungu Commemoration
Committee, Nga Uri Whakatupu o Hokianga and haukainga
[people of the local marae] to mark the day with fun
activities including Powhiri and waka.

The fleet of waka
are due to arrive with the tide between midday and 1pm –
and this year, Ngatokimatawhaorua from Otaua will also be
taking part. Ngai Tu are the kaitiaki [guardians] of this
waka.

“People in the Hokianga look forward to the
February 12 Treaty celebrations, and this year will be no
exception,” says Mita

“There’s been a lot of
interest. This is a great family occasion, and we’re
inviting everybody to bring along a picnic and enjoy the
day.”

Admission to Māngungu Mission and the Treaty
commemoration celebrations is free, though a koha to help
cover costs would be appreciated.

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